Strategic Communication: Restricting the Free Speech of Retired Officers
Abstract
Retired flag officers should refrain from public speaking and commentary on matters related to current military activities, particularly at the theater-strategic and operational levels of war. There are many legal and practical reasons why retired flag officers should restrict free-flowing public speech on matters related to ongoing operations in which they have in-depth knowledge. This monograph examines how unrestricted speech can adversely impact an operational commander's strategic communications, fall outside the bounds of military professionalism, and undermine the civilian-military relationship in the United States, thus providing a basis for statutory limitations on speech by retired flag officers. From a legal and regulatory perspective, this analysis evaluates which statutes and Department of Defense directives restrict the public speech of active duty members and whether those restrictions apply to retired officers. The discussion then presents the most common arguments against restricting the public speech of retired officers and concludes with a recommendation that Congressional legislation aimed at clarifying the expectations for free speech of retired generals and admirals be enacted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 31, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA494308
Entities
People
- William W. Gideon
Organizations
- Naval War College